The different causes of head swelling can be due to a brain injury or infection, or simply a swollen neck. Head swelling is often a cause for concern and should be treated by a doctor, as blood vessels in the brain may be contributing to the lack of blood flow. A condition called goosebumps can often be caused by a blow to the head, which results in the veins in the scalp leaking blood and fluid, causing swelling of the head. Most symptoms of head swelling are caused by injuries, and proper medical attention should be given immediately to prevent serious and permanent damage.
General swelling of the head may be the result of edema or fluid retention in the neck and head areas. Even this seemingly benign form of head swelling should be taken seriously in case of progressive swelling later on. There are times when the lymph nodes in the brain can swell in response to an infection, causing swelling in the head. Another type of infection that can cause swelling of the head is a general skin infection, and this is usually treated with antibiotics which will in turn reduce the swelling. An allergic reaction to an insect bite or to a certain food can lead to swelling of the head and other areas of the body.
A condition called chicken egg is the result of an injury to the top of the head and causes blood and fluid to secrete from the scalp. This can lead to swelling of the head and is a serious condition that needs to be treated in the proper medical settings. When an injury occurs, the blood vessels in the brain may not function properly, leading to inadequate blood flow to the brain. Lack of blood flow to the brain can swell the brain and the top of the head.
Prompt and immediate medical attention should be sought for any sign of swelling in the head, even if no pain occurs. The pain may not even occur due to numbness in the affected areas, so it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Applying ice to the head is the first step to help reduce swelling before taking professional medical action. Sometimes a doctor will keep an injured person in a hospital to help further reduce swelling, as well as to monitor the healing progress of the brain and underlying tissues.